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Whipped Chain Stitch

Whipped Chain Stitch

Whipped Chain Stitch is a handy variety of chain stitch, as it creates a slightly stronger line than ordinary chain stitch. It stands a little more proud of the surface.

Whipped chain stitch sample 1The thread you use to whip the foundation line of chain stitches can be of a contrasting colour or texture. You can also use many novelty threads with this technique too. Alternatively, you can use a thread of the same colour — as I have done in the sample above. I used Whipped Chain to outline the shape of each gecko before surrounding them in other forms of surface embroidery.

How to work Whipped Chain Stitch

To start, you need to know chain stitch, as the first step is to work a foundation row of Chain Stitch.

Whipped chain stitch step 1Make each chain stitch slightly longer and a little looser than normal, because the line of stitching will tighten slightly when you whip it, and you don’t want your work to pucker.

Whipped chain stitch step 2With a second thread, whip the foundation row by passing the needle under each chain stitch as illustrated. When you do this, take care not to pick up any of the fabric. Use a blunt-ended tapestry needle for the whipping to avoid splitting the chain stitches on the foundation row.

Whipped chain stitch step 3Continue until the end of the line.

Whipped chain stitch sample 2

This is a particularly useful stitch if a raised line is required on a delicate fine fabric that can not accept a heavy thread through the weave. You can work a foundation row of stitches in a fine thread then whip the line with a heavier thread.

Have you seen my Stitcher’s Templates?using my stitchers Templates set 2

As someone who loves crazy quilting and embroidery, I designed these templates with other stitchers in mind. With my templates, you can create hundreds of different patterns to apply to your stitching and crazy quilting projects. They are easy to use, totally clear so you can position them easily. They are compact in your sewing box. And we laser cut them ourselves in our own studio workshop to ensure the highest quality.

For more information, see what they look like, find out about the free ebook of patterns visit the information pages in the shop where you can also purchase them.

12 Comments

  1. Thank you for the different versions of chain stitch. I use whipped chain stitch a lot as it makes such a lovely distinct line for stems etc. Can’t wait to try the ones you have illustrated.

    Joan Flynn
  2. Love it Sharon! I am in the middle of making one of Dijanne Cevaal’s travellers blankets and using chain stitch a lot . This will be an interesting variation . Thank you so much. I am really enjoying doing the blanket. My theme is the Camel Estuary in Cornwall and the St Endellion Music Festival where we go every year.. Recent
    Australian visitors to see Arthur Phillip’s grave at Bathampton church tell me there is quite a drought in parts of Australia. Hope you are OK. Best wishes Andy

    Andy Lloyd Williams

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